Growing Pains – The Beauty of a Growth Mindset
- Justin Lyons
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
“The only thing standing between you and your goals is the story you keep telling yourself.” – Jordan Belfort
Growth Is Messy—And That's Okay
Growth isn’t linear. It’s not always graceful. Sometimes it’s tears on your pillow at midnight. Other times, it’s the quiet victory of trying again after a setback. But no matter how it looks, growth is still growth—and it’s always worth it.
At Special Connects, I work with young adults navigating transitions—graduation, career shifts, new responsibilities, identity exploration. And the one mindset shift that changes everything? Believing that who you are today doesn’t define who you can become tomorrow.
What Is a Growth Mindset—Really?
A growth mindset is more than just a buzzword. Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, it’s the belief that your abilities, intelligence, and talents can be developed over time with effort, learning, and persistence.
It’s the opposite of a fixed mindset, which tells you: “You’re either good at it, or you’re not.”
With a growth mindset, challenges don’t intimidate you—they invite you.
Mindset Shifts That Matter:
From Fixed to Flexible:
You’re not born with a limited amount of potential. Your brain is capable of change (hello, neuroplasticity!). You can learn new skills, adapt to new situations, and become more than you were yesterday.
Redefine Failure:
Failure isn’t proof of your inadequacy—it’s evidence that you tried. It’s information. A chance to pause, reflect, and pivot. Mistakes don’t make you weak—they make you wiser.
Feedback Is Fuel:
Whether it comes from a teacher, a boss, or even your inner critic, feedback is your GPS. It shows you where to go next. You don’t have to take it personally to take it seriously.
Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Prize:
Growth isn’t just the end result. It’s found in the effort, the struggle, the daily decision to keep showing up. The small steps matter. They build grit, confidence, and character.
What story are you telling yourself?
That you’re not smart enough, strong enough, talented enough? Imagine how your life would shift if you added just one word: “yet.”
Pause and Reflect:
When was the last time I learned something by failing?
What belief about myself have I outgrown?
Am I afraid to start because I might not be perfect?
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be willing to take the next step.
If you’re tired of feeling stuck, I’m here to help you shift your story. Coaching isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about sustainable transformation. Together, we’ll turn growing pains into growth power.
Ready to see what’s possible when you believe in your ability to evolve? Start your mindset journey today at www.specialconnectsllc.com
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